Explore Cornwall’s hugely diverse landscape with a bike ride or on foot along one of our Cornish National Cycle Network routes.
Whether your interest in Cornwall is inspired by memories of a childhood seaside holiday, its prehistoric remains or local legends, this corner of England has so much to offer.
Its gentle dramatic headlands, magnificent coastline, sheltered estuaries, busy harbours, intimate coves, moorlands and sandy beaches can all be explored by bike or on foot by following National Cycle Network routes.
Best for seeing the famous Cornish coastline – Mineral Tramways
This 12-mile coast to coast route starts on the Atlantic Coast at Portreath, once an important harbour for the surrounding mines, and finishes at the picturesque harbour village of Devoran. The traffic-free trails showcase this varied and unusual landscape and offer a fantastic insight into the area's industrial past.
Best for seeing the countryside – Pentewan Trail
Enjoy wildflowers, wooded countryside and fine coastal views on this 8-mile route from St Austell to Mevagissey. The route takes you along a flat former railway line past the beach and harbour at Pentewan. From here you can follow the traffic-free trail to the bustling village of Mevagissey. If you want to keep going, you can follow the route onwards to the quieter fishing village of Portmellon.
Best for a family ride or walk – Camel Trail
One of the most popular recreational routes in the country, the 17-mile Camel Trail runs from Padstow to Wenford Bridge, via Wadebridge and Bodmin. The trail passes through the wooded countryside of the upper Camel Valley and alongside the picturesque Camel Estuary - a paradise for birdwatchers and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Best for investigating the local culture - Bodmin to the Eden Project
This 10-mile ride takes you through the Cornish countryside from the pretty town of Bodmin to the Eden Project - one of the country's best tourist attractions. Along the way, you pass the National Trust property of Lanhydrock and a wetland nature reserve. At the Eden Project, you can join one of the three Clay Trails which let you explore the surrounding area.
Best for challenging yourself – Cornish Way
This epic 123-mile route takes you from Lands’ End to Truro, travelling past St Buryan, Mousehole with its stunning harbour and along the coast to Newlyn. From here the route takes you onto the popular tourist destination of Penzance. The route hugs the coast until Marazion before heading inland towards the Hayle Estuary and Camborne. You continue onto Redruth, passing the fantastic Bissoe Valley Nature Reserve before arriving in Truro.